News Summary
Camden County is experiencing significant resistance against a proposed property tax increase that would raise the millage rate substantially. Georgia State Representative Steven Sainz has voiced strong objections, emphasizing that the county’s existing property tax rates and budget already surpass those of comparable counties. The proposed tax hike, aimed at funding essential infrastructure projects, raises concerns among residents about its impact on lower socio-economic groups. Public hearings have been scheduled for community input as tensions rise over affordability versus necessary funding.
WOODBINE, GA – Camden County is facing significant opposition against a proposed property tax increase that aims to raise the millage rate from 12.1 mills to 14.10 mills, which translates to an estimated 18% increase in property taxes for residents. Georgia State Representative Steven Sainz has expressed strong objections to the increase, arguing that Camden County’s property tax rates and budget already exceed those of comparable counties in Georgia.
The tentative increase, which would add approximately 2.171 mills, is intended to fund essential capital projects including a new jail facility, a Sheriff’s Office, and an animal control facility. Currently, Camden County maintains one of the larger budgets among similarly-sized counties in Georgia, prompting Sainz to label the situation as a spending problem rather than a revenue shortfall.
For a home valued at $300,000, the tax increase would elevate property taxes from about $232 to approximately $251.84. Meanwhile, non-homestead properties valued at $175,000 would see an increase amounting to approximately $151.97. Many residents are voicing concerns that rising taxes will disproportionately affect lower socio-economic groups, particularly single-parent families.
Camden County’s current millage rate of 12.1 mills is already above the state average, raising alarms among residents about continuing tax increases. Craig Banister, one of the concerned residents, suggests that alternative funding methods should be explored for the projected capital projects.
The Camden County Board of Commissioners has scheduled three public hearings to discuss the proposed tax increase, giving residents an opportunity to voice their opinions. The hearings are set for September 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and October 7, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. All meetings will be held in the Commissioners Meeting Room situated on the second floor of the Government Services Complex, located at 200 E. 4th Street, Woodbine, GA.
Each year, the Camden County Board of Tax Assessors conducts reviews and updates on property values based on recent sales to ensure fairness and accuracy. This policy is designed to maintain an equitable tax structure within the county. However, with the proposed hike, many residents are questioning the necessity of raising taxes on a budget that is already substantial.
The proposed increase is a vital part of funding for the 2026 budget that the Camden County Board has adopted. As the Board moves forward with its plans, tensions are mounting between residents concerned about affordability and representatives who argue for necessary infrastructure improvements. In the coming weeks, the public hearings will provide crucial insight into the community’s stance on the matter, potentially influencing the Board’s final decision on the millage rate.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Wikipedia: Property Tax
- First Coast News
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- Google Scholar: property taxes Georgia
- News4Jax Politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Taxation
- Camden County Official Site
- Google News: property tax
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